Repair of nasal septal perforation using a simple unilateral inferior meatal mucosal flap

Nasal septal perforation may cause recurrent epistaxis, nasal obstruction, discharge, crusting, dryness, pain and whistling. Many surgical approaches for the repair of septal perforations have been reported in the literature, however most of the available closure techniques are technically difficult, require experienced surgeons and have a high rate of reperforations. A new and simple surgical technique for the treatment of nasal septal perforations is described in the present study. A total of 13 patients with symptomatic nasal septal perforation measuring 17 +/- 3 mm (range 5-26 mm) at the widest point were enrolled in the present study. All patients were treated with a unilateral inferior meatal mucosal flap and had their septal defects closed. Complete symptomatic resolution was documented among all of these patients. This technique provides a new method with many advantages compared to other techniques for closure of septal perforations. Our first experiences with this flap show its reliability in repairing septal perforations. (C) 2008 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.